Understanding The 2022 Cooling Ordinance: What Type of Air Conditioning Equipment is Required?

What type of air conditioning equipment is required Under The 2022 Cooling Ordinance?

• Dual Abilities: Air conditioning equipment must have both cool and dehumidify. So, a landlord cannot only use fans or evaporative cooling systems (a machine that cools the air through the evaporation of water).
• Timing: The air conditioning equipment should either work separately from the heating system or be able to switch from heating to cooling mode within an hour. If a space currently uses equipment that doesn't meet this requirement, additional cooling equipment may be needed.
• Capability: The air conditioning equipment used must be able to keep the indoor temperature at 75ºF and the humidity at 50% when the outdoor temperature is 92ºF and the humidity is 75%. Whether the equipment can meet this specification depends on factors like the size of the space, the number and type of windows, and how well the walls, floor, and roof are insulated. An architect, engineer, or experienced contractor can help calculate the right type and size of equipment for your space.

Is a Permit Needed to Install New Permanent Air Conditioning Equipment? 

Yes. To install permanent air conditioning equipment, the contractor will  need a permit from the Department of Buildings.

• If a contractor  wants to do the work that requires a permit, they must have a license from the City of Chicago. There isn't a specific license for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) work, so the contractor will probably have a general contractor license.
• If a contractor is  installing new air conditioning equipment for a single space, they can use the easy permit program. This type of permit is usually issued within 1-2 business days. The contractor should give you a copy of the permit for your records.

Electrical work must be done by an electrical contractor licensed by the City of Chicago.

• The electrical contractor can be hired directly by the building owner or be a subcontractor hired by the general contractor.
• If they don't have any other permit, the electrical contractor must get an electrical permit before starting the work and should give you a copy for your records.